The bank, which received the first banking licence in Myanmar in 1992, aims to facilitate access to financial services for all and will transform its retail, corporate and digital offering to bring new products and enhanced services to customers quickly and efficiently.

“The market here has been through immense change across all industries, and banking is no exception. As we come into a period of expected rapid growth, competition is heating up and customers are demanding superior products and services,” said Dr Sein Maung, Chairman at FPB. “Our mission is to deliver efficient, transparent and trustworthy banking to all and we know that requires a slick, modern technology platform at the core. Misys technology is flexible and scalable and will form the foundation for efficient, digital banking here at FPB.”

Myanmar’s economy is expected to grow an average of 7.1 percent per year in the next three years. Amidst increasing competition, FPB will be able to provide consumers and businesses with relevant and innovative products and services and shape an enhanced digital experience. This will enable it to capture a greater share of the country’s retail and corporate banking market, including opening up services to those that are currently unbanked.

This project will see Misys FusionBanking Essence and Digital Channels provide an efficient, connected front, middle and back office with advanced analytics to support the bank in better understanding consumer needs. FPB will be able to launch personalised products quickly and cost effectively in line with demand. Customers will be able to view and access their accounts across channels, get salaries credited electronically, transfer money and pay bills from different branches or on the go via mobile. The FusionBanking Insight analytics module will also enable the bank to track performance and obtain a consolidated view of customer preferences.

Meanwhile, Misys FusionBanking Trade Innovation and Corporate Channels will help the bank provide unified online commercial banking services and digitalised, efficient trade finance capabilities. The move will ensure rapid access to trade finance and working capital for corporate clients, and support Myanmar’s businesses in expanding into international markets. With an automated trade finance solution, the bank can grow volumes quickly and securely with minimal impact on operations.

“Creation of a stable banking system has a powerful part to play in supporting this phase of Myanmar’s economic and social growth,” said Simon Paris, President at Misys. “Developing regions can often leap-frog mature banking market challenges, since they are not saddled with legacy technology and processes and can modernise faster. Digital services like those we are providing to FPB make a significant difference. This is especially true in a country where many locals are underbanked but now have access to the latest smartphones, having skipped chunkier mobile models of yesteryear. Bringing modern technology into the bank to support this changing dynamic and drive inclusive financial services is aspirational and speaks to a positive future.”

Big Byte International was instrumental in the deal which saw Misys chosen over other core banking vendors for its modern, componentised technology and expertise in the region. Amit Johari (AJ), CEO, Big Byte International said, “With the launch of our third entity in Myanmar, Big Byte International will continue to provide consulting, sales and support services to banks and FIs across Asia. Myanmar is our key growth market in addition to Singapore and India.”

With a growing customer base in Myanmar and Asia Pacific, Misys will help FPB to incorporate best practices, processes and technology. Misys FusionBanking will replace the bank’s partially computerised distributed branch system.